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Manly Beach in Sydney, Australia

Moving to Sydney

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jul 08, 2023

Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Sydney, Australia for its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and diverse population. With its temperate climate, Sydney is an ideal place to live and work. The city is home to a wide range of industries, from finance and technology to the arts and entertainment. Expats will find plenty of opportunities to explore the city's many attractions, from its iconic landmarks to its world-class restaurants and nightlife. Before moving to Sydney, it is important to research the cost of living and the availability of housing. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations, as well as the public transportation system. Additionally, expats should consider the language barrier, as English is the primary language spoken in Sydney. Finally, it is important to research the job market and the availability of healthcare services.

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

What do I need to know before moving to Sydney?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Sydney, they said:

"Planning to move to Sydney? Here are a few helpful tips: Research visa and work opportunities– Decide what type of visa you need, ahead of time and familiarize yourself with the Australian job market. You will also need to take into account your eligibility and cost of health insurance in the country. Familiarize yourself with the cost of living– Expats in Sydney rent and a portion of their salary is allocated for basic goods. Be aware of the average monthly costs of rent, food, transportation, and more in the area you are moving to. Explore different neighborhoods & neighborhoods locations– Depending on your job and/or family situation if applicable, you need to research and compare different neighborhoods within Sydney. Consider how close you are to shops, parks, schools, and public transportation. Find a place to stay before you arrive– Book accommodation, either in a hotel, hostel, Airbnb, or apartments before your arrival in Sydney. Keep an eye on the weather– Sydney is a big city and the weather in different parts can vary greatly. The Northern Beaches tend to be sunnier and warmer while the city center may get more rainfall. Make sure you choose a wardrobe that can handle both. Take a tour to get to know the city– You can take a guided tour of the city as a great introduction to Sydney. This can be a great way to get to know the city, the culture, and the best places to visit," said one expat who made the move to Sydney, Australia.

"Look around a lot before you rent because the market is not very efficient. Most landlords are unwilling to make any improvements unless it is at the very high end of the market," explained one expat living in Sydney, Australia.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Manly Beach in Sydney, Australia

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